In the world of baseball, even the smallest gestures can speak volumes. And when it comes from players, it speaks louder than words. A classic case was caught during the recent Mets-Red Sox game when cameras captured something that left fans uneasy. After swinging his bat for a home run hit, Francisco Lindor was happily returning to the dugout when suddenly, his teammates were caught rushing towards him. But one of the most surprising faces among those teammates was Juan Soto, who went in for a fist bump.

But his gesture was not interpreted the way he thought it would. Instead, it didn’t quite feel right to fans. Sure, he raised his hand for a bump—but the energy was not there. No eye contact, no smile, just a quick mechanical motion. For a player who is known for his spark and his swagger, the moment felt weird. Social media caught on to this fast, and whispers of something being off between Lindor and Soto began cooking up.

But not everything we interpret is true. It turns out, Soto has anything but respect for Lindor. Though Soto may seem distant from the team, Lindor has been everything that screams ‘leader.’ And Shoetime agrees as well. “I really respect that. He really cares about the guys. That’s huge for a team — to show a little love to every player and have them know that you always have their back, even if they have a bad day. It’s big time,” said Soto. So no beef—just admiration, and honestly, there is a lot to admire.

Lindor might not have been officially named captain, even though there was a lot of noise about him being selected as one, but he is the New York Mets‘ heartbeat. Lindor, when asked about his habit, being the humble guy he is, simply said he does it because for him it’s like “walking into my house and saying hello to my kids.”

Even pitcher Sean Manaea appreciated it, “It goes a long way in making people feel welcome…… It’s very unique, special.” This is the kind of unity that matters in a high-pressure clubhouse.

The speculations about Lindor and Soto being on odds escalated when an MLB insider, Mike Rodriguez, added fuel to the fire by saying, “You are not the same, #JuanSoto… There is a different aura around you.” While he praised Soto’s talent, he called his presence different. For someone carrying the hopes of the Dominican Republic and the $765 deal, this shift is difficult to ignore. Concerns about Soto’s energy are on. For a franchise that has invested so much in him, the disconnect is tough to ignore.

Where’s Juan Soto’s fire?

Now, it is natural that how one feels is how one projects. When Soto was with the New York Yankees, under the protection of Aaron Judge, he was a different player altogether. He was able to put his best foot forward and his smile and celebrations reflected that. Now he may have the richest contract, but with things spiraling downward, his demeanor seems changed. It’s no surprise, because really Soto’s season is looking bad; the once most feared hitter is hitting just .244.

Soto’s bat has been quiet with just eight home runs and 25 RBIs. The same player who once boasted of an OPS of nearly 200 is now sitting at 115—is this what a generational player is? That’s what many fans have questioned. Because, on paper, a generational player can carry the team, regardless of the team turmoil. His at-bats also lack the usual fire.

According to Justin Havens of Underdog Fantasy, his bat speed has taken a massive dip. From 75.4 mph in 2024 to 73.3 mph this year—it’s the fifth-biggest drop in MLB. His fast swing rate, the percentage of swings at 75 mph or higher, has also fallen from 59% to a drastic 38%. This is not a slump but a red flag.

Scott Boras did try to offer some perspective this week, reminding people that being the highest-paid baseball player comes with a mountain of pressure. But honestly, playing in New York demands more, and they want it now. They banked on a five-time Silver Slugger, a World Series champ, and one of the most gifted hitters of his generation—not just anyone else. The clock until the crowd completely turns on Soto seems to be ticking loudly now.

Soto will get his next chance to reset everything on Friday night at Citi Field against the Rockies. Do you think he can make a comeback? Let us know.